The launch of the Marshall Heston 120 soundbar marks the renowned UK-based audio company’s expansion into TV audio, following its successful ventures into wireless headphones and Bluetooth speakers. This new soundbar features support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, positioning it as a formidable competitor in the premium audio market. Priced higher than established brands like Sony, Bose, and Sonos, the Heston 120 must provide a compelling home theater experience to earn its place among the best soundbars available.
Design and Aesthetics
The Heston 120 reflects Marshall’s iconic guitar amplifier heritage with a design that stands out in any room. Measuring 43 inches in width, the soundbar features a black faux-leather cabinet, gold-tone accents, and a distinctive fabric grille known as a ‘fret’. Its striking appearance has led some to appreciate it as a conversation piece, while others might find it visually distracting during movie viewing. Despite initial concerns about its aesthetics, many users have grown fond of its presence in their living spaces.
At three inches tall, the Heston 120 can easily fit beneath most television screens. Additionally, it can be wall-mounted using optional brackets sold by Marshall. The soundbar is designed for durability, with replaceable components including the fret, end caps, and drivers, making it robust for everyday use.
Effortless Setup and Connectivity
Setting up the Heston 120 is a straightforward process. Users simply need to connect the soundbar to their TV via an HDMI cable and plug it into a power source. With the included Marshall app, available for both iOS and Android, users can quickly connect the soundbar to their Wi-Fi network, unlocking features like Apple AirPlay and Google Cast. The app also allows users to adjust settings and control sound modes from the comfort of their sofa, compensating for the absence of a dedicated remote control.
The Heston 120 is equipped with an impressive array of connectivity options. In addition to the standard HDMI-eARC port, it includes an HDMI input with support for HDMI 2.1 features such as Dolby Vision and 4K/120Hz passthrough, analog RCA inputs, and a mono subwoofer output. This extensive selection of ports provides flexibility, allowing users to connect a variety of devices. Notably, the soundbar can accommodate any wired subwoofer, enhancing its versatility in home audio setups.
Performance for Movies and Music
Equipped with 11 discrete drivers and amplifiers, the Heston 120 delivers a robust audio performance that rivals pricier competitors. The built-in subwoofers can reproduce frequencies as low as 40Hz, providing substantial bass for both film and music. Users have noted that soundtracks and dialogue clarity are particularly strong, especially in dedicated sound modes tailored for movies and voice enhancement.
While the soundbar performs admirably for cinematic experiences, some users may find that it lacks the precision of higher-end models like the Sonos Arc Ultra. The Heston 120’s ability to handle Dolby Atmos content is commendable, though adjustments to volume levels might be necessary to fully appreciate its spatial audio capabilities.
The Heston 120 also excels in music playback, producing a warm tone and impressive volume without noticeable distortion. The soundbar’s streaming capabilities and support for various audio protocols make it an appealing option for music enthusiasts. Users can enjoy high-resolution audio from services like Tidal Connect and Spotify, although some limitations exist regarding preset functionalities with certain music services.
Customization and Future Potential
The Heston 120 offers built-in room calibration to optimize sound quality based on the user’s environment. While this feature generally enhances the listening experience, some users may desire additional control over individual channel levels. The Marshall app allows users to make adjustments through a five-band equalizer, though these settings cannot be saved for different sound modes.
Looking ahead, Marshall plans to introduce a dedicated wireless subwoofer and expand the Heston 120’s capabilities by integrating with its line of Bluetooth speakers. This potential enhancement could further elevate the soundbar’s appeal, especially for users seeking a comprehensive home audio solution.
In conclusion, the Marshall Heston 120 soundbar stands out as a noteworthy option for those in search of an all-in-one audio system. While it may not match the immersive experience provided by the Sonos Arc Ultra, its competitive pricing, robust feature set, and distinctive design make it a solid choice. For consumers seeking high-quality sound for both movies and music, the Heston 120 deserves serious consideration as a versatile addition to any home entertainment setup.
